PARIS — Former Hebron Academy teacher Gino Valeriani will be sworn in as the new Paris Police Department’s school resource officer Monday. 

Valeriani, a reserve officer for the department, will gradually replace Sgt. Skip Mowatt over the next year as the department’s liaison with the Oxford Hills School District.

A licensed pilot, flight instructor, diver, milfoil inspector, fireworks technician and commercial bus and truck driver, Valeriani taught science for 35 years at Hebron Academy, a private college-preparatory school founded in 1804. The school has an enrollment of 250 students, according to its official website.

He also is a former SAD 17 director.

At 60 years old, Valeriani said he’s looking forward to combining his extensive experience in the classroom with public service. 

“If you can nip something in the bud when kids are in school, hopefully that will prevent problems on the street. There’s a close relationship between what’s going on in school and in town,” he said. 

Valeriani said he’s been interested in military and law enforcement positions and his family has a history of service. 

“I like challenges; I like working with people,” he said.

Police Chief Michael Madden said six people applied for the position, but only three were eligible to proceed to an oral examination and interview. 

Valeriani came out with the top ranking, he said. 

“I think officer Valeriani will be an outstanding addition to our force and I’m happy he excelled in the testing process coming out of the reserve officer ranks,” Madden said. 

Valeriani passed a polygraph, psychological and physical exam as part of the reserve hiring process, according to Madden.  

SAD 17 Superintendent Rick Colpitts said the district was notified of the department’s pick and is looking forward to working with Valeriani.  

He will be sworn in at the Paris selectmen meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, at the Town Office.

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